About Walnut Country Preschool
Where learning feels like play and every child is known by name. Walnut Country Preschool is a close-knit community of teachers, families, and friends who share a love of discovery, creativity, and connection in a joyful early learning environment.
Our Preschool
Walnut Country Preschool is a long-standing community preschool located in the heart of Walnut Country, the Crossings neighborhood. For more than 50 years, our school has been a joyful place for children to learn, play, and grow. Our expert staff plans child-centered activities that support the whole child, helping each student build social competence and the skills they need to succeed as learners. With a focus on creativity, connection, and discovery, we provide a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and supported.
outdoor play, play-based preschool, playhouse.
Our Teachers
Our highly qualified staff is dedicated to creating a learning environment where every child feels safe, comfortable, and loved. Under the guidance of our Director, a team of Head Teachers and Classroom Teachers works together across the school to support each child’s growth. Our educators truly feel like an extension of your family, with many serving our community for years. Some first joined us as parents, which helps us carry forward heartfelt traditions and a strong sense of belonging for your child.
Mrs. Kelly
Director
Mrs. Kelly is our Director and holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from San Diego State University, with additional studies in Early Childhood Education from Diablo Valley College. She lives in Clayton with her husband and two children and loves creating a warm, welcoming school community.
Mrs. Erika
Lead Teacher
Mrs. Erika is our Head Teacher and holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from Cal State East Bay, with additional studies in Early Childhood Education from Diablo Valley College. She lives in Concord with her husband and son and enjoys helping children grow through creativity and play.
Mrs. Jessica
Teacher
Mrs. Jessica earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies from San Francisco State University and studied Early Childhood Education at Diablo Valley College. She lives in Concord with her husband and two children and finds joy in helping each child learn, laugh, and explore every day.
Mrs. Alyce
Teacher
Mrs. Alyce earned her B.A. in Sociology from San Diego State University and studied Early Childhood Education at Diablo Valley College. She lives in Concord with her husband and two children and loves guiding young learners with kindness, patience, and care.
Teaching Philosophy
Our Philosophy
Our program offers a child-centered, play-based curriculum.
This means that we develop lesson plans that leave space for
open-ended exploration to suit your child's individual learning
style best. ​Our preschool operates on a nondiscriminatory
basis, providing equal treatment and access to services without
regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry.
We provide an enriching, supportive, and secure learning
environment where the children are exposed to a variety
of stimulating experiences.
Goals and Objectives
We know that it is important for your child to approach peer interactions with kindness, compassion, and patience, while honoring diversity and developing a positive self-image. We aim to provide a learning environment that promotes social, emotional, sensory, cognitive and physical development for each child on their individual learning journey. By supporting children's natural curiosity, our goal is to develop confidence and positive self-esteem, which encourages creative problem solving and critical thinking skills.
Parent Involvement
At Walnut Country Preschool, parents are an essential part of what makes our school so special. Families have the opportunity to assist in the classroom, help with projects, and take on roles such as Fundraising Lead, Room Parent, or event volunteer. These connections help us build lasting friendships and keep our school community strong. Our Board of Directors is also made up of parents of currently enrolled children who help guide and support the preschool throughout the year.
